How to Clean Your Dog's Ears

Audio Transcript

It's important to keep your dogs ears free of debris to prevent infection. Before you get started, make sure you have all your supplies on hand. You'll need antiseptic solution, which can be purchased from your vet or at a pet supply store and a sterile gauze pad, sponges or several cotton balls. Read the label on the solution you plan to use for cleaning. Don't use anything with insecticides, but you may not be able to tell from the label. Ideally you should check with your vet before using any product.

You may want to have a family member or friend help hold the dog. To clean your dogs ears safely, gently hold your dog's head so that one ear is exposed. Squeeze some solution into your dog's ear following the label's directions. Gently massage the outside of the ear. Using a sterile gauze pad, sponge or cotton ball wipe all around the inside of the ear. Don't leave any solution in the ear, it can cause an infection. Throw away the gauze pad in a covered waste basket and wash your hands.

If you notice any red dirt, waxy build up or anything that looks like coffee grounds, your dog could have ear mites. See your vet for proper treatment.